So I had an offer to have all the parts given to me to convert from a 4 lug to a 5 lug. Its tempting... I currently have drum breaks and I would like to know what you guys think of the 4/5 conversion and is it necessary to convert to disk brakes? Also, other than mav/comet disk brakes I am assuming (from reading around) nothing else bolts on...So who's holding on to some disks? Assuming I go that route. Also, I am excited because my transmission is rebuilt and my windows are out for headliner repair and new seals!! All of which I am attempting to do myself
Are you talking about converting to 5 lug all the way around or just the front? You don't need to convert to disc brakes if 5 lug hubs with drum brakes come your way. Personally, I would go the disc brake route. Front Granada/Monarch/Versailles spindles are a direct bolt on but you will have to ask the forum members about tie rod ends to be sure you get the right combo. I'm not certain on that subject
if you are having all the parts given to you, what disks are you referring to? if you're talking about rotors...Advance Auto...Orilieys...Auto Zone, etc, etc.
Can u use 5 lug drum spindles to convert to disc brake in the front? I found a Maverick that has 5 lug drum brakes in the front and I was wondering If I can get the spindles and put disc brakes
You'll need aftermarket parts to convert drum spindles to disc, the spindles you already have are likely same as V8... I don't know of any difference in these parts unless it's 69.5, those use different tie rod...
Slightly longer answer: The spindles for disk-brake cars have the caliper rail mounting bracket drilled and tapped into them. Drum spindles will not have these features. When I converted my '70's manual drums to manual disks, I pulled the spindles off a '74 4-door along with the proportioning valve. It was a direct swap, with the exception of having to, slightly, move a couple brake line mounting tab holes. Got new calipers and disks from NAPA. Eric
I would definitely swap to at least front discs if you plan on sharing the road with modern cars. Drums are awful. Make the car faster and you find their limits quicker. Later Mav and Comet disc brake spindles along with Granada and Monarch pieces are your easiest option. These will bolt right up to your A-Arms. You need to be sure to get the proper outer tie rod ends for the donor spindles. Versailles spindles at first blush would sound like they should work, but apparently this is not true. The upper ball joint is different. While you are at it, grab the rear axle from the donor car. If it happens to be a Granada or Monarch, the rear axle is something like 1.5 inch wider, and this centers the wheel in the tub better. You will be able to fit more tire in there with wheels that are close to stock offset. Mav axles are close to the leaf spring. The spring pads will already be in the right place for the swap.
